As the weeks rolled into months since March 2020, and we find ourselves settling in for the long haul as Covid 19 was declared a Global Pandemic that no-one could escape from. Our vacation plans have been postponed as we embrace the new normal and prepare instead for a "Summer Staycation". I have decided to make lemonade out of the Covid lemons and I decided that I am planning on thriving during lockdown as the world figures out how we can return to the lives we once knew.
We each have a choice and it is essential we play our role by wearing masks, social distancing, washing our hands and cancelling all non-essential travel. However there is always an opportunity in every challenge and I am inspired to share with you a few ideas I have to make a retreat out of your Staycation.
Buy local seasonal ingredients and learn to cook some new dishes to enhance your repertoire and boost your immunity. Food as Medicine is Ayurveda's answer to flooding your body with phytochemicals as you eat the rainbow of colours. Try delicious Salads, roasted vegetables, falafels and green smoothies.
Wake at sunrise and tip toe to your garden, balcony or nearest park with your yoga mat under your arm, ready to greet the day with a few rounds of sun salutations and some Yum Yoga, finishing off with your favourite pranayama practice. Maybe some friends will join you.
Sit quietly with your eyes softly closed and follow your breath or try a mantra practice and Meditate, a proven energy and immune booster. Use a guided practice or else simply set your timer and take some time at the end to gently return to activity.
Break a sweat and get your heart rate up by going for a hike, a bike ride, swim or kayak, walk your dog and meet a friend as you enjoy your favourite activity.
Make Lemonade! Remember to stay hydrated, especially if it's warm where you live. Have fun with Filtered water as you infuse it with lemons, limes, fresh mint or cucumber slices, add herbal teas, fennel, green tea, fresh ginger or whatever combination inspires you. Keep sipping throughout the day.
Try something new that truly inspires YOU, creative writing, plant a herb garden, paint your masterpiece, learn an instrument, a new song, read a book about your hero or heroines, take up a new activity that you always thought you would like to try: rollerblade, skateboard, tennis, sailing, archery . . . . so many ideas, so much time!
There is a wonderful opportunity during your Staycation to emerge from these months feeling inspired, refreshed and renewed. I for one have really relished the time to read more books and start writing again. My easel is dusted off and my paints are out of hibernation, I feel a burst of creativity in my veins. I start everyday with a gentle sadhana which includes Yoga, Meditation and lots of Ayurvedic recipes to keep me active and healthy in my mind, body and spirit.
If you would like a mentor to support your staycation retreat, let's connect!
Stay Home, Stay Safe, Stay Healthy. Namaste,
Suzi Von'
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